Aug 20 - Aug 23, 2026

CS2 at EWC 26 marks the third year of Counter-Strike competition at the Esports World Cup. Following title wins by Natus Vincere in the first year and The MongolZ in the second, the world’s top teams return to compete for the championship in a tournament that highlights Counter-Strike’s highest level of play.

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Competing Teams

$2,000,000

Prize Pool

Participating Clubs

Lynn Vision Gaming
Qualified from
ACL
TBD
Qualified from
VRS Global
TBD
Qualified from
VRS Global
TBD
Qualified from
VRS Global
TBD
Qualified from
VRS Global
TBD
Qualified from
VRS Global
TBD
Qualified from
VRS Global
TBD
Qualified from
VRS Global

Road to EWC 2026 - Qualifiers

3%

1/32 Slots Claimed

About

Counter-Strike 2 is a competitive first person shooter defined by round based play and clearly defined roles. Teams split each match between the Terrorist and Counter-Terrorist sides, with objectives shifting accordingly. Terrorists aim to plant the bomb or eliminate the opposing team before time expires, while Counter-Terrorists work to prevent the plant, defuse the bomb, or secure eliminations. Success is built on precision gunplay, positioning, and disciplined teamwork across every round. At the highest level,

Counter-Strike 2 is shaped by its economy system and the strategic use of utility. Teams earn money through round performance and must carefully manage resources to maintain competitive firepower throughout a match. Smokes, flashbangs, incendiaries, and grenades are used to control space, deny information, and create openings. As one of esports most storied titles, Counter-Strike 2 continues to thrive through deep rivalries and an experienced global fan base, with its next chapter unfolding on the Esports World Cup stage.

News

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